CHAPTER 4 LESSON 3:

MORAL VIRTUE AND

MESOTES
 MESOTES
Mesotes is the idea of finding the intermediate or moderate position between two extremes. In
philosophy, the concept of Mesotes emphasizes the importance of seeking balance and harmony in
all aspects of life. It encourages individuals to navigate between extremes and find a middle
ground that promotes well-being and understanding. By embracing moderation, one can achieve a
sense of equilibrium and avoid the pitfalls of excess or deficiency. The philosophy of Mesotes
serves as a guiding principle for decision-making, encouraging thoughtful contemplation and a
holistic approach to living a fulfilling and virtuous life.
 • MESOTES

Intermediate Position
Mesotes emphasizes finding the middle
ground between excess and defeciency.

Balance and Harmony

It promotes harmony and balance in terms of
behavior and decision-making.

Virtuous Character
It leads to the development of a virtuous
and morally upright character.
 MORAL VIRTUE

Moral Virtue or excellence of character, is a fundamental principle in Ethics that focuses on

cultivating a consistent tendency to navigate the middle ground between extremes of excess and
deficiency. This concept emphasizes the importance of finding balance and moderation in our
thoughts, actions, and emotions. By practicing moral virtue, individuals can develop a strong
ethical compass that guides them towards making wise and virtuous decisions in various aspects of
their lives. Embracing moral virtue not only fosters personal growth and integrity but also
contributes to building a more harmonious and compassionate society.
 • MORAL VIRTUE

Defining Ethical Excellence

Moral Virtue encompasses moral goodness,
integrity, and rightiousness.

Development of Character
It involves forming habits that lead to a
virtuous and noble character.

Practice and Habituation

It emphasizes the importance of practice and
repetition in developing moral excellence.
TABLE OF VIRTUES AND VICES
EXCESS MIDDLE DEFECIENCY

IMPULSIVENESS SELF-CONTROL INDECISIVENESS

RECKLESSNESS COURAGE COWARDICE

PROFANITY LIBERALITY MEANNESS

In the table Aristotle identifies the virtue of courage as the middle, in between the vices of being
coward and reckless. Cowardice is a deficiency in terms of feelings and passions. This means that
one lacks the capacity to muster enough bravery of carrying herself appropriately in a given
situation. Recklessness, on the other hand is an excess in ones feelings and passions. In this regard
one acts with a surplus of guts that she is being to act daringly enough but able to weigh up possible
implications of such act that she precedes with caution.